Acequia De Los Ortegas

The annual meeting included updates on Commission meetings, a review of the previous year's financial record, and a report on work to replace the old concrete liner. There were discussions about dam levels, water releases, and the difficulty of clearing trash from the ditch. The meeting also covered the negotiation of the Abbot adjudication, maintenance of easements, and changes to the bylaws. The current Commission was willing to continue, and there were no other nominations.

The meeting included discussions on lateral maintenance responsibilities, emphasizing the Acequia Cost Share Program for funding support. The commission addressed concerns regarding a water transfer request by the Chimayo Domestic Water Association and the Santa Cruz Irrigation District, leading to a motion to file an objection with the State Engineer. Delinquent accounts were reviewed, with plans to send out past-due notices and consider placing liens on properties. The dam's release schedule was also discussed, noting a potential reduction in release days due to runoff management.

The annual meeting included a review of the previous meeting's minutes and a commission meeting summary. The treasurer presented the 2023 financial report and the proposed budget for the current year, noting an increase in the bank balance. Delinquent accounts were discussed, with potential actions such as Magistrate Court filings and liens on properties considered. An update was provided on the water forecast for the season, with estimates of snow pack at 115% of normal. Ditch cleaning was scheduled to start next week, with the goal of having water running by the end of the month. Discussions also addressed a debris dam below the diversion on the Santa Cruz River and maintenance responsibilities on laterals.

The annual meeting included reports on flood damage from the spring and October storms, detailing repairs to the ditch and associated costs. Water banking was discussed, including the leasing of shares to the Chimayo Mutual Domestic Water System and the requirement for commission approval of water rights transfers. Financial statements were reviewed, noting delinquent accounts and the possibility of liens. Updates were provided on the adjudication of water rights, the Abbot settlement, and potential continuous flow requests from Santa Clara. Water requests, access, easements, and potential lateral extensions were discussed, along with the water outlook for the upcoming season and recommendations for farmers. The Open Meeting Act Resolution was approved, and the current commissioners were re-elected for another term.